I am going to Shanghai, China, for the first time, and my aunt's foreign exchange student's parents are picking me up from the airport. I've met the student before, but never her family. As customary, and polite, one should bring a gift to the host family. Normally, things like fruits or whatever are sufficient, but since I'm coming from a different country, and getting picked up right from the airport, I would need to get something before I arrive. And you can't bring fruits on a plane.
My question is, what should I bring? and I don't know any of their interests. The gift should be housewarming, not expensive, not (too) big, and probably geared toward the interest of the parents, and not the kids. Any ideas? I am coming from the US if that matters. In June.
?2010-04-03T18:19:42Z
Favorite Answer
Actually, get something "uniquely" AMERICAN.
Fruits may not be allowed to go through their customs, unless it is pre-packaged foods.
Find some artwork, maybe... or maybe some baseball t-shirts.
Some years ago, I was going to The Netherlands to visit a friend, and he practically BEGGED me to bring some NIKE shoes for his neices... because it was almost impossible to find them there AND if they did, they were a LOT more expensive there!
I realize the money exchange rates have changed a lot since then, but you can get the idea!
As a person who grew up in Chinese culture, I'd recommend you bring them something not materialistic! I've spectated that many Chinese families tend to re-gift, throw away, or not cherish things that they are not used to and have no real interest in.
Get them something they'll be curious about. So the only thing I agree with bringing is a special food item!
Perhaps, a box of gourmet chocolates, or a box of unique tea that is particularly from where you are from.
What sounds really ideal and easy to get is a box of flavored tea from your local supermarket. If tea doesn't sound good to you, even a pack of Planters Party-Mix Peanut is perfect. Also, beef jerky is good too (that's what I brought on my last trip to China). You should maybe also include a pack of Starburst, Skittles, or M&Ms for the kids (if there are any).
I don't recommend bringing spices, assuming they aren't used to incorporating unfamiliar spices in their cuisine.
Good luck! Give them your gift with confidence! I'm sure you'll find the perfect housewarming gift.
I think most of the other people already answered this - bring something from your hometown. It does not have to be expensive.
However, here are certain pitfalls:
1) Do not give watches or clocks (those words sound like a funeral procession in Chinese) 2) Do not give sharp objects (cutting relationships) 3) Do not give books (books sound like the word lose)
I agree with bringing something that is unique to your hometown or region. I brought Cajun spices to Australia once and know of someone who brought a vase for the family from a local artist. Both were huge hits.
I'm a Chinese girl. i think u can bring something special from ur hometown, such as local currency(not too much,it just likes a souvenir). When i came to Canada, I brought some Chinese knot and food to my homestay!
BTW, they won't mind if u bring nothing! Good luck~